To replace a single cracked tile, cut out the grout around it, break the tile into pieces, clean the base and set a new tile with adhesive. The trick is to protect the neighbors while you work. Take it slowly and wear eye protection throughout.
Get Ready
Check that you have a spare tile of the same size, thickness and finish. If you kept leftovers from the original job, those are ideal. Otherwise bring a broken piece to a tile seller for a close match.
- Safety glasses, gloves and a dust mask
- Grout saw or rotary tool, used as the maker directs
- Hammer and a narrow chisel
- Putty knife or scraper
- Tile adhesive suited to the surface, and a small notched trowel
- Spacers, grout, sponge and cloths
Sharp edges are the main hazard here. Wear gloves when lifting pieces and sweep up small chips at once.
Removal and Fitting
- Use the grout saw to cut the grout on all four sides of the cracked tile, keeping clear of neighbors.
- Tap a nail or punch near the middle of the tile to make a break, then work outward with the chisel.
- Lift the pieces out and place them in a tub or thick bag.
- Scrape off old adhesive until the bed is flat, then vacuum.
- Dry-fit the new tile. It should sit slightly below its neighbors before adhesive goes on.
- Spread adhesive on the bed, comb it with the notched trowel, and press the tile in with a gentle twist.
- Insert spacers so the gaps are even, and check that the surface is level with the neighbors.
- Leave the adhesive to harden for the time on the label before walking on it or grouting.
- Fill the joints with matching grout and wipe the haze away with a damp sponge.
Why Did It Crack?
| Possible cause | What it suggests |
|---|---|
| A dropped heavy item | One-off damage; a single swap is reasonable |
| Hollow-sounding tiles nearby | Adhesive may have failed in a wider area |
| Cracks running across several tiles | Possible movement in the base; seek a professional |
| Dampness around the crack | Possible leak; find the source first |
Anything that points to structural movement, or to a leak from the main water supply, needs a qualified professional rather than a new tile.
Keep any leftover tiles in a labeled box afterward, so a future repair is easier. Write the room and the date on the box with a pen, and store it somewhere dry.
FAQ
Can I reuse the old adhesive bed?
Only if it is level, clean and firmly bonded. Otherwise scrape it back.
How long before the tile can take weight?
That depends on the adhesive, so follow the label.
The Short Version
Cut the grout, break out the tile carefully, level the bed, set the new tile and regrout. Wear eye protection, follow the maker’s directions and get help if the damage looks widespread.